From Beach Towels to Hearing Aids: Malta’s Student Entrepreneurs Make Waves

Imagine this: a bustling street in Valletta, the sun beating down on Republic Street, and a young entrepreneur, armed with a bag full of colourful, upcycled towels, is making a pitch that will change the course of their academic career. This isn’t a scene from a movie, but a reality for two University of Malta students who recently won the prestigious Student Entrepreneur of the Year award.

Beach Towels Get a Second Life

Meet Marisa and Daniel, the brains behind ReTowel, an innovative startup that’s giving old beach towels a new lease on life. Their journey began when they noticed the piles of discarded towels at Malta’s beaches and resorts. Instead of letting them end up in landfills, they saw an opportunity to create something unique and eco-friendly.

“We started collecting old towels from hotels and beaches, cleaning them, and upcycling them into new products like bags, rugs, and even face masks,” explains Marisa. Their products, sold under the brand ReTowel, are not only sustainable but also stylish, with vibrant designs that reflect Malta’s sunny shores.

Hearing Tech with a Human Touch

While ReTowel was turning waste into wealth, another University of Malta student was revolutionising the hearing aid industry. Meet Matthew, the inventor of HearMe, a user-friendly, affordable hearing aid that connects to smartphones.

“I was inspired by my grandmother’s struggle with hearing aids,” says Matthew. “They were expensive, uncomfortable, and difficult to use. I wanted to create something better, something that would improve people’s lives.”

With HearMe, users can adjust volume and settings directly from their smartphones, and the device’s discreet design makes it virtually invisible when worn. It’s not just about technology, though. Matthew’s startup also provides personalised support to each user, ensuring a smooth transition to better hearing.

Winning Big at the Student Entrepreneur of the Year Awards

Both startups faced stiff competition at the Student Entrepreneur of the Year awards, but their innovative ideas, passion, and commitment to sustainability and accessibility won them over. The judges praised their creativity and potential for growth, awarding them the top prize and a cash injection to help propel their businesses forward.

“Winning this award is a breakthrough for us,” says Daniel. “It’s validation that we’re on the right track, and the funding will help us expand our operations and reach new customers.” Matthew agrees, “This award is more than just a trophy. It’s a stepping stone to making hearing aids accessible to everyone who needs them.”

From upcycled towels to hearing tech, Malta’s student entrepreneurs are proving that innovation knows no bounds. They’re not just creating businesses; they’re creating a better, more sustainable future for us all.